Western New York Family Hoping to Bring Canine Helper Home

LOCKPORT, NY - Daryl & Rebecca Wery are working hard with their 5 year old son Jonathan training with Sassy.

The Rough Collie is not only a companion for the young boy. He can sense by smell if Jonathan is going to have a seizure.

Jonathan's Dad, Daryl Wery says the first day Jonathan met Sassy there was an immediate connection, "as if it were a match made in heaven!"

Jonathan has a rare form of epilepsy called Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. His mother says the worst seizures are when he suddenly drops to the ground, and that can happen several times a day. He wears a helmet to protect his head.

Sassy would be able to get his parents if something went wrong, but the cost is overwhelming.

$15,000 covers Canine Helpers costs for raising the dog since it was a puppy and training.

The training is extensive including training at home and public places, and Canine Helpers will continue training if needs change in the future.

Beverly Underwood, Executive Director Canine Helpers says, "It does sound like a lot of money, but when you break it down it works out to be four dollars a day, and where else can you get 24 hour care and love for 4 dollars a day?"

Sassy may also one day be helpful to Jonathan's 3-year old brother Conner. He also has LGS.

The Wery's are grateful for the help they've received so far from family and friends, but they still need around $6,000 to make Sassy a permanent part of their family.

If you would like to make a donation, you can through Canine Helpers. If you send a check, make sure it says it's for Sassy. Canine Helpers is located at 5699 Ridge Road in Lockport, NY 14094. The number for the not-for-profit is 433-4035. Canine Helpers has been in business over 28 years, and placed over 600 assistance dogs.